INDYCAR and Iowa Speedway today took another step in their long-standing relationship as the two organizations announced a two-year extension that will see the Verizon IndyCar Series return to “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet” through the 2018 season.

Iowa Speedway gained international attention in 2007 when INDYCAR became the first major series to race at the newly opened track. Since that time, the premier stars of open-wheel racing have returned to Newton each year. The Iowa Corn 300, entering its tenth year in 2016, is the second longest entitlement sponsorship in INDYCAR racing.

“The success of our partnership with INDYCAR is a testament to our partnership with Iowa Corn and our loyal race fans in Iowa,” Iowa Speedway President Jimmy Small said. “The Iowa Corn 300 has become a bucket-list item for race fans and we’re thrilled to make the announcement now so our fans can start planning ahead for the next two epic 7/8 mile showdowns. We love everything that the Iowa Corn 300 has grown into and I’m proud to have them on board for two more years.”

Next year’s Verizon IndyCar Series Iowa Corn 300 is scheduled for Sunday, July 9, 2017. This early announcement, along with the one NASCAR made in May, locks down three high-octane weekends of racing at the “Fastest Short Track on the Planet” next season.

“Iowa Speedway has become a staple of the Verizon IndyCar Series schedule and we’re happy to confirm we’ll be returning here in 2017 and 2018,” said Jay Frye, President of Competition and Operations for INDYCAR. “The level of competition at this track is incredible and showcases some of the best INDYCAR racing you’ll see all year.

“We’re thankful for the continued support from Iowa Corn and Iowa Speedway track president Jimmy Small – both of their teams have been instrumental in making this such a strong event.”

The stars and cars of the ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards will again share the lineup with the Verizon Indy Car Series, giving race fans a full complement of stock car and open wheel racing on July 8-9. The 150-lap ARCA race will kick off the weekend, exciting fans for the next day’s IndyCar Series Iowa Corn 300.

In a historic early offering, current Season Ticket Holders will have the opportunity to renew their existing tickets in the Season Ticket Holder Hospitality Tent beginning July 29-30 of this year. This advance occurs before Season Tickets go on sale at the Iowa Speedway Box Office and IowaSpeedway.com, on August 2. Extended payment plans will be available and this season will offer even greater flexibility to fans who want to spread out the cost of their Season Ticket Package.

The 2016 running of the Verizon IndyCar Series Iowa Corn 300 at “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet” will take the green flag on July 10. The race will be broadcast live on NBCSN at 4:00 p.m. CT.